Local Name

Dates of Mothers' Day

Summary

Mother's Day in Panama is a national holiday, celebrated on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception

On 8 December each year, Panama has a national public holiday for Mother's Day.

This holiday is similar in traditions to Mother's Day in other countries with the notable difference that is a public holiday and it is celebrated intentionally on the same day as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

History of Mother's Day in Panama

A day to honour mothers was first celebrated in Panama on 11 May 1924 and was established by the Rotary Club of Panama. President Belisario Porras declared it as a national holiday.

In 1930, Hercilia de Arosemena, the wife of the president at the time, suggested that 8 December was a more fitting date than May for the holiday. Panama was and remains a predominantly Roman Catholic country, so associating Mother's Day with a holy day that already celebrated Mary, the mother of Jesus was seen as apt.

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception

This day is the date when Mary was conceived, and preserved from original sin all of her life.

Mother's Day is intended to honour all woman and mothers. As it is on the same day as the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the day will start with a family trip to Church.

On Mother's Day, mothers will receive presents from their family, such as flowers, chocolates, cooking a traditional meal or giving thank-you letters and poems. Many mothers will also be given the day off - with their usual chores being done by other family members.

How is Mother's Day in Panama celebrated?

Unlike Mother's Day in other countries, it is a national holiday in Panama, so banks and government offices as well as other commercial establishments will be closed.